In order to apply to a program at Relay, prospective students must complete Relay’s admissions process.  Admission to Relay includes the following requirements:

GPA

Applicants who intend to seek certification in Tennessee through Relay must have: 

• A minimum GPA of 2.75 from a completed baccalaureate or post-baccalaureate degree program or a GPA of 3.00 in the most recent sixty (60) credit hours earned at a regionally accredited IHE.

Limited Exceptions

Relay may admit up to 10% of applicants to Relay’s Tennessee educator preparation programs via exception who have a GPA below the state minimum of 2.75 including those who fall under Relay’s minimum GPA requirement of a 2.50. These applicants may be prompted to have a secondary recommendation submitted that will be used to evaluate their eligibility for admissions to Relay. This will be based on a first come first serve basis.  As of July 2, 2024, all GPA exceptions for applicants with a GPA under 2.50 have been distributed for Tennessee applicants.  Exceptions are still available for those who fall between 2.50 and 2.75.

Applicants who do not intent to seek certification must meet Relay's GPA requirement for admissions:

• At least a 2.50 Undergraduate GPA - If you are not seeking certification in Tennessee and your undergraduate GPA is 2.50 or higher, you are eligible for admission to Relay.

• Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below the Relay minimum of 2.50 may apply to be admitted to Relay via an exception to Relay’s GPA policy who have:

  • • Earned a 2.50 GPA in their last 60 credit hours of their undergraduate program, or

    • Earned a master’s degree or higher with a GPA of 2.50 or higher.

    • Applicants who do not meet the above criteria may be prompted to have a secondary recommendation submitted that will be used to evaluate their eligibility for admission to Relay.

  • As of July 2, 2024, all GPA exceptions for applicants with a GPA under 2.50 have been distributed for Tennessee applicants.

Bachelor's Degree

Applicants must provide Relay with official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, including an official bachelor's degree-conferred transcript. Click here to read more about submitting transcripts to Relay.

Program-Aligned Instructional Role

Applicants must secure a program-aligned instructional role with one of our partners (see below).  If you have questions about whether or not your teaching position meets the criteria for admission to Relay, please reach out to [email protected].

Application

Applicants must submit all application materials, including:

• An up-to-date and polished resume;

• A short essay on your commitment to teaching;

• Contact information for one recommender, to whom Relay will reach out

Admission Checklist(s)

Applicants must satisfy all admissions requirements listed on their Admissions Checklist(s).

Continue to Tennssee Certificationà

Return to Admissions and Prospective Students home à